SHILLONG; In a major boost to Meghalaya’s tourism sector, Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira on Tuesday announced a series of high-impact infrastructure projects, including the state’s first five-star hotel in Tura and several initiatives collectively valued at over ₹100 crore.
The Minister said the government is accelerating efforts to position Meghalaya as a premier destination for both domestic and international tourists.
Addressing the media, Shira revealed that a formal ceremony will soon be held to hand over land in Tura—earlier known as Polo Orchid—to an international hotel group. The proposed luxury hotel, estimated at around ₹40 crore, will be developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model on 1–2 acres of land, marking the beginning of a new era of premium hospitality in the Garo Hills region.
He said the project is expected to significantly enhance the region’s capacity to host high-end tourists, business travellers, and international guests.
Highlighting the importance of connectivity, Shira said improved transport infrastructure forms the backbone of the state’s tourism vision. While Guwahati currently serves as the main gateway to Meghalaya, the government is banking on the Baljek Airport to transform travel to western Meghalaya. Once fully operational, the airport will bring air connectivity within 30 kilometres of Tura, reducing travel time and boosting investor confidence.
The tourism expansion extends beyond luxury hotels. The Minister announced several major projects in the pipeline, including a ₹23 crore luxury tourist lodge in Siju, a ₹23 crore modern convention centre in Resubelpara, and a ₹23 crore tourism destination development project in Mondalgre, aimed at diversifying the state’s tourism offerings.
Shira also praised residents of the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve for their strong commitment to environmental protection. He noted that the local community has taken ownership of waste management and sanitation, issuing public notices against littering and open defecation.
“The community is now deeply involved in management. They have made it clear that garbage and open defecation will not be tolerated. To support these eco-friendly efforts, the government is providing essential facilities such as toilets to ensure sustainable tourism,” Shira said.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to balancing infrastructure development with environmental conservation to ensure long-term growth of the tourism sector.
